Computer case

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus for a notebook or laptop or tablet computer case that can also be used as a ventilated and/or insulating platform for supporting a computer during use, on either a lap or desk or table.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from provisional patent application60/885,215 filed 16 Jan. 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Pursuant to 37 C.F.R. 1.71(e), Applicants note that a portion of thisdisclosure contains material that is subject to and for which is claimedcopyright protection (such as, but not limited to, drawings and/ordesign elements). The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure, asit appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records.All other rights are reserved, and all other reproduction, distribution,creation of derivative works based on the contents, public display, andpublic performance of the application or any part thereof are prohibitedby applicable copyright law.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to cases for holding or protectinglaptop computers and similar devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Since the advent and popularity of the laptop or notebook computer,there has been a need for ever improved cases or other carrying orprotection mechanism for the physical computer when not in use.

Examples of prior art cases and stands are shown in U.S. Patents andpatent applications listed below. This listing shall not be taken toconstrue that a search has been performed or that these examples areparticularly relevant to the present invention: U.S. Pat. Nos.7,036,642, 6,496,360, 6,349,825, 6,305,652, 6,305,652, 6,269,948,6,181,554, 5,639,004, 5,607,054, 5,552,960, 5,445,266, D510,348,2006237615, 2004240164, 2004188289.

Despite the large number of competing laptop case designs available,there remains a sustained interest in laptop computer cases that providenovel combinations of functionality and pleasing designs.

SUMMARY

The invention involves a computer case that can serve as a base. In oneembodiment, the case naturally or selectively conforms to a wedge-shapewhen a computer is not inside. In specific embodiments, the inventiondoes this using a simple design by constructing the case so that twoedges of the opening can fold easily together when a computer is notpresent in the case. In an alternative embodiment, a case according tospecific embodiments of the invention may either naturally orselectively maintain a box conformation, providing a raised ventilatedbase for the computer. In various embodiments, the present invention canbe broadly understood as a notebook or laptop or tablet computer casethat can also be used as a ventilated and/or insulating platform forsupporting a computer during use, on either a lap or desk or table.

In either configuration, the case is designed not only for holding thecomputer, but also to serve as an insulating base that is suitable foruse either on a desk, table, or similar surface or on the user's lap. Infurther embodiments, the case optionally contains a specific heatreflective or shielding material to prevent heat from the computer fromtransferring to a user's lap or to a desk or table.

Because of the unique design of the wedge shaped embodiment ofinvention, a computer case can be constructed that has a slim appearanceand that easily conforms to a ventilated base of the desiredconfiguration.

Thus, the invention in various embodiments provides a new and improvedcomputer case and methods for the use and construction thereof that hassimplicity in construction and assembly and that is simple to use inmultiple modes.

Other Features & Benefits

The invention and various specific aspects and embodiments will bebetter understood with reference to the following drawings and detaileddescriptions. In some of the drawings and detailed descriptions below,the present invention is described in terms of the important independentembodiments of specific computer cases of specific design andconstruction, in some cases including specific materials. This shouldnot be taken to limit the invention, which, using the teachings providedherein, can encompass a variety of different materials of constructionand a variety of different design elements. It is therefore intendedthat the invention not be limited except as provided in the attachedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments ofthe invention in a closed rectangular box configuration, optionallyenclosing a notebook or laptop computer.

FIG. 1B illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments ofthe invention in a closed wedge configuration.

FIG. 1C illustrates a computer case according to specific embodiments ofthe invention in a closed wedge configuration with a notebook or laptopcomputer positioned on the closed case and using the closed case as aventilated base.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computer notebook case according to specificembodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration being usedas a ventilated base.

FIG. 3A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3C is a front plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3D is a bottom plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a laptop case according to specificembodiments of the invention showing an example of case constructionaccording to specific embodiments.

FIG. 5A illustrates an alternative notebook computer case according tospecific embodiments of the invention with a non-collapsible closedconfiguration with a decorative ventilation pore arrangement.

FIG. 5B and C illustrate a case similar to that of FIG. 5A but with analternative ventilation pore arrangement and showing the case with aflap in an open and closed position.

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration having a zipper fastening according to specificembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6C is a front plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6D is a top plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the inventionillustrating positioning of a computer on the base.

FIG. 8A and B are views of a computer case showing optional ventilatingconstruction according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative computer holder and base according tospecific embodiments of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

The present invention can be broadly understood as a notebook or laptopor tablet computer case that can also be used as a ventilated and/orinsulating platform for supporting a computer during use, on either alap or desk or table. A number of different configurations are possibleaccording to various embodiments of the invention. The figures includedherewith each exemplify various embodiments of the invention, butdimensions shown or implied in the figures are examples only and casesof a wide range of sizes can be constructed according to specificembodiments of the present invention. While the invention will be betterunderstood by reference to the figures and the figures each mayillustrate novel features and/or novel combinations of specificembodiments, many variations of case design according to specificembodiments of the invention will be understood to practitioners in theart having the benefits of the teachings provided herein.

FIG. 1A-C illustrate an example computer case according to specificembodiments of the invention showing the case in a closed rectangularbox configuration (FIG. 1A), optionally enclosing a notebook or laptopcomputer and in a closed wedge configuration (FIG. 1B). In FIG. 1C, acomputer is shown positioned on the wedge configuration, which,according to this embodiment, provides ventilation and a tilt angle tothe computer keyboard. Note that while the FIG. 1C illustrates acomputer with the keyboard tilted downward towards the user, if desiredthe user can reverse direction of the computer, allowing providing thenotebook keyboard with a tilt down and away from the user, as issometimes desired for ergonomic reasons.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computer notebook case according to specificembodiments of the invention in a closed wedge configuration being usedas a ventilated base. In this illustration, the case is shown being usedas a laptop base, which provides some flexibility in positioning thecomputer for the user and also shields the user's lap from heat that canbe generated especially by higher-performance laptop computer systems.

FIG. 3A-D provide various views illustrating one design of a computercase in a wedge shaped configuration according to specific embodimentsof the invention. It will be understood that some design details, suchas the edge stitching shown, are optional details and will not bepresent in all embodiments.

In this embodiment, the basic design can be understood as involving aset of mostly rigid panels each joined along opposite edges including afront panel with a bottom edge flexibly connecting to a bottom panelwith its opposite edge flexibly connecting to a back panel with itsopposite edge flexibly connecting to a top panel with its opposite edgeflexibly connected to a flap panel. These panels are joined together toform an open box by two collapsible side panels each connecting to anedge of the front panel, an edge of the back panel and an edge of thebottom panel. The construction allows the case to be easily closed toform a protective rectangular box for holding a computer. Theconstruction also allows the case to be easily closed to form awedge-shaped laptop base as illustrated in the figures.

Example Construction

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a laptop case according to specificembodiments of the invention showing an example of case constructionaccording to specific embodiments. In this example, a rigid, heatresistant plastic insert is sewn or otherwise attached inside of theback panel to protect the users lap from heat. The flexible lid/flap isflexible material that can fold over and act as a closure when eitherthe case has a laptop inside or it is empty. In specific examples, abreathable, perforated material cover is used for the case. A rigid,plastic insert with holes can be attached inside of the top cover toallow air to circulate through it while adding some rigidity to thestructure and breathable, perforated material sides allow aircirculation.

According to various embodiments, a case according to the invention canbe constructed from any suitable material or combinations of materials.In one embodiment, the case is constructed out or one or more plastic orpolymer materials with the properties as described herein. Othermaterials, including natural and synthetic fabric, metals, polycarbonatematerials, ceramics, wood or wood derived materials, paper, etc., canall be used in various embodiments as will be understood in the art.

Non-Collapsible Box Design

FIG. 5A-C illustrate alternative notebook computer cases according tospecific embodiments of the invention with a non-collapsibleconfiguration and a decorative ventilation pore arrangement. It will beunderstood from the teachings herein that this design embodimentprovides the advantages of a sleeve type computer case that can functionas a ventilated base but without the option of having an alternativewedge shaped configuration.

Flap-Less Design

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration having a zipper fastening according to specificembodiments of the invention. In this embodiment, the design issimplified and includes a fastener (e.g., a zipper) that allows openingof the case at least enough to insert or remove a laptop computer. Animportant element of this design is that when a computer is not in thecase, the case closes at the top edge and while remaining substantiallyrigid at the bottom edge, thereby allowing the case to also act as astable base for the laptop.

In particular embodiments, the top surface of the case optionallyincludes elements that assist in ventilation for a laptop computer. Forexample, the illustrated bars can represent ventilating slots forproviding airflow underneath the laptop into the case when closed.Alternatively, the illustrated bars can represent raised portions orridges that elevate the laptop slightly from the base, thereby providinggreater air circulation.

FIG. 7 is a side plane view of a computer case in a wedge shapedconfiguration according to specific embodiments of the inventionillustrating positioning of a computer on the base. In thisillustration, the side panels are shown as a flexible ventilatedmaterial. This illustrates that the zipper enclosure is optional.

FIG. 8A and B are views of a computer case showing optional ventilatingconstruction according to specific embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative computer holder and base according tospecific embodiments of the invention.

Conclusion

The invention in its various embodiments provides a sleeve type computercase (which may be referred to as the Aerocase™ computer case) that canbe used as a case to (1) protect a laptop or notebook or tablet computerfrom bumps and scratches; and as a base to (2) protect a computerprocessor from over heating by encouraging proper air circulation on theunderside of the computer; (3) protect a user's lap from radiant heatthat can cause discomfort; (4) present the computer at a desiredergonomic angle when used on the lap and/or on a table or desk or othersurface.

It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein arefor illustrative purposes and that various modifications or changes inlight thereof will be suggested by the teachings herein to personsskilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purviewof this application and scope of the claims.

All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein or filedwith this application, including any references filed as part of anInformation Disclosure Statement, are incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

1. A laptop case comprising: a back panel with a top edge flexiblyconnecting to; a top panel with one edge flexibly connected to said backpanel and an edge flexibly connected to a flap panel; a front panel; abottom panel connecting said back panel and said front panel; twocollapsible side panels each connecting to an edge of said front panel,an edge of said back panel and an edge of said bottom panel; wherein,when said case does not contain a laptop computer; said front panel andsaid back panel meet along said top edge; said front panel and said backpanel remain separated by said bottom edge; said laptop case therebyproviding a wedge-shaped laptop base.
 2. The case according to claim 1further wherein: said top panel and said flap panel fit over said frontpanel when said case is closed.
 3. The case according to claim 1 furtherwherein: said two collapsible side panels are made of a ventilatingmaterial allowing air flow when said case is closed.
 4. (canceled) 5.The case according to claim 1 further wherein: said back panel includesa heat resistant and/or heat reflective rigid material to prevent heatfrom transferring to a surface upon which said panel is resting, such asa user's lap from heat.
 6. The case according to claim 1 furtherwherein: said front panel includes a rigid and ventilating materialallowing air flow from underneath a laptop when said laptop ispositioned on said front panel.
 7. The case according to claim 1 furtherwherein: said case is manufactured with nine edges that are notseparable by the user.
 8. (canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled) 11.(canceled)
 12. (canceled)
 13. (canceled)
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled)16. A laptop case comprising: a back panel with a top edge flexiblyconnecting to; a top panel with one edge flexibly connected to said backpanel and an edge connected to a flap portion; a front panel; a bottompanel connecting said back panel and said front panel; two side panelseach connecting to an edge of said front panel, an edge of said backpanel and an edge of said bottom panel; wherein, when said case does notcontain a laptop computer said case forms a rectangular box able tosupport a laptop computer while in use and providing a ventilated base;wherein at least two of said panels include ventilation passagesallowing for air flow through said case.
 17. The case of claim 16further wherein: said ventilation passages are arranged in a decorativepattern on at least one of said panels.
 18. A laptop case comprising: aback panel with a back-panel top edge; a front panel with a front-paneltop edge; a bottom portion connecting said back panel and said frontpanel; wherein, when said case does not contain a laptop computer; saidfront panel and said back panel meet along said top edge; said frontpanel and said back panel remain separated by said bottom edge; saidlaptop case thereby providing a wedge-shaped laptop base.
 19. The caseaccording to claim 18 further comprising: two collapsible side panelseach connecting to an edge of said front panel, an edge of said backpanel and an edge of said bottom panel.
 20. The case according to claim18 further comprising: two side portions each connecting to an edge ofsaid back panel.
 21. The case according to claim 18 further comprising:a zipping fastener connecting said top edges and connecting portions ofsaid two collapsible side panels.
 22. The case according to claim 19further wherein: said two collapsible side panels are made of aventilating material allowing air flow when said case is closed.
 23. Thecase according to claim 18 further wherein: said two collapsible sidepanels are made of a ventilating material allowing air ventilation whilepreventing dust to enter said case.
 24. The case according to claim 18further wherein: said back panel includes a heat resistant and/or heatreflective rigid material to prevent heat from transferring to a surfaceupon which said panel is resting, such as a user's lap from heat. 25.The case according to claim 18 further wherein: said front panelincludes a rigid and ventilating material allowing air flow fromunderneath a laptop when said laptop is positioned on said front panel.